Pineapple Stuffing

Are you on the lookout for a dish that adds a tropical twist to your beloved meals? Well, look no further—introducing the Pineapple Stuffing, a recipe that promises to be both easy to make, incredibly filling, and the talk of your next holiday spread. 

An added benefit? This stuffing has no added sugar. Instead, it boasts a medley of herbs that enhance its taste, preventing you from having to artificially enhance it.

While this Pineapple Stuffing might not be a staple at your traditional Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter feasts, it is bound to be a game-changer. Whether served as a sweet side dish or paired with your favorite protein, this stuffing is a crowd-pleaser, starting new and unique traditions with your loved ones.

Customizable for Any Occasion

The beauty of this Pineapple Stuffing recipe is its adaptability. You can easily scale it up or down based on the number of people you're serving, adjusting the ingredients to achieve the perfect balance. For those who prefer a moist stuffing, a generous amount of chicken stock can be added, covering the stuffing throughout the baking process. On the other hand, if a drier texture is your preference, simply reduce the amount of chicken stock used.

To elevate the texture and flavor, it's recommended to use bread that's one to three days old. While fresh, soft bread can be used, be mindful that it might result in a mushy texture without the desired structure. Use Original Hawaiian Sweet Sliced Bread for an extra touch of sweetness.

Always Room for Leftovers

The versatility of this stuffing extends beyond the initial serving. If you find yourself with leftovers, fear not. Simply allow it to cool, place it in a shallow container, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Alternatively, freeze the leftovers for up to a month.

When ready to indulge in the refrigerated pineapple stuffing, take it out of the fridge and let it reach room temperature on the countertop for about 30 minutes. Once it's ready, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle some chicken stock if it's on the drier side, and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.

For completely frozen leftovers, place them in a baking dish, cover tightly, and bake in a preheated oven for 45-60 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 

Don’t forget, leftover pineapple stuffing can be enjoyed on its own or used in other creative recipes, such as chicken casserole, empanadas, and eggrolls.

Can you make Pineapple Stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, allowing the flavors to meld together by preparing the stuffing at least a day in advance can enhance its taste. After preparing the stuffing, instead of baking it, cover it tightly and refrigerate for 1-3 days. When it's time to bake, take it out, let it come to room temperature, and then proceed with baking as usual.

Should I add eggs to my stuffing?

This particular recipe opts out of including eggs, resulting in a looser texture. However, for those who prefer a more compact stuffing, adding eggs can be a game-changer. The eggs contribute to a light and fluffy consistency, offering a different dimension to the Pineapple Stuffing.

Anyway, that’s enough talk; it’s time for action. Grab your aprons and let’s make Pineapple Stuffing!

Preparation

Set the oven to preheat to 325°F.

In a 12-inch skillet on medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced celery and onion for about 10 minutes or until tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. 

To elevate the stuffing's flavor, add thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the onion and celery mixture. Bring it to a quick boil before removing the skillet from heat. Thyme introduces earthy and slightly sweet tones, while sage brings a savory, peppery undertone, adding depth to the stuffing. Salt and pepper balance the taste, and the chicken broth unites the flavors.

Combine Ingredients

Bread, acting as the pillar of texture, plays a crucial role. Use bread that has become stale for 1-3 days. If using fresh bread, cube and toast it until slightly dried out. Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and add the pre-cooked celery, herbs, and chicken broth mixture. The bread acts as a canvas, absorbing all the flavors carried by the broth. Add parsley for additional herbaceous notes, followed by orange zest and pineapple. Toss and mix until well combined. Orange zest brightens up the recipe with a citrusy note, and crushed pineapples contribute sweetness and tanginess.

Bake, Serve, and Enjoy!

Transfer the mixed ingredients to a 13 by 9-inch glass baking dish, level with a spoon, and bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. Once well-cooked, remove from the oven and serve.